Riverina Pet Rescue collects the dogs and the animals are rehoused due to the efforts of a broader network of rescue organisations.

The organisation’s Rhonda Helman says the dogs are de-sexed, checked for worms and other illnesses and have their temperament assessed before going to new homes.

“I think we’ve managed to cut the euthanasia rate at Walgett to about one per cent.

“It would only be if the dog was sick and had a very low chance of survival or was not able to be rehomed through aggression or something like that that we wouldn’t be able to save the dog.

“Statistics like that are fantastic.”

The organisation works with a number of other rescue groups through www.petrescue.com.au

People will often say, ‘it can’t be done’, when the truth is actually ‘no one is doing it’. One by one, pounds are being overhauled – dragged into the 21st century. Our pets deserve a safe place in their time of need.

The community – US! – as pet lovers, we are the key to making it happen.

It’s not more ‘professionals’, it’s not more ‘industry leaders’, it’s not even (despite what the multi, multi-million dollar charities will have you believe) ‘mo money’ that’s needed (although self-funded rescue groups are always grateful for support).

What is needed is a flashpoint which brings the community together, to draw a line in the sand to say – no more killing.